2 Kinds of Plungers Every Homeowner Should Know

Living through an unpleasant clogged toilet, sink or shower drain is almost like receiving coal from Santa Christmas morning. It’s a gift that sometimes keeps on giving and not in a good way. Luckily, armed with the right tools you’ll be able to tackle those common clogged toilets, sink or shower drains on your own.

Many homeowners may not know that there are different kinds of plungers, all designed for specific kinds of drains in your home. If you don’t happen to know the kind of plunger you have, you may be clearing clogs with the wrong kind of plunger meaning you may not be clearing clogs as effectively as you could be. In addition to effectively clearing your clogs sometimes using the wrong kind of plunger can damage your appliances! By knowing these two plunger types you will be able to protect your appliances and stop those clogs.

Cup Plunger (Common Sink Plunger)

The cup plunger is most likely the image you picture in your head when you think of a plunger. It has a long wood stick with most likely a red rubber cup on the end. Cup plungers create a vacuum inside the cup and over the drain. This design is perfect for unclogging drains in tubs and some sinks because it works on flat surfaces. Since toilets do not have a flat service, cup plungers are not very effective at unclogging toilets.

Flange Plunger (Toilet Plunger)

The flange plunger does look similar to the cup plunger however, it typically has a longer handle and the cup has a soft rubber flap that folds out from the inside of the cup. The design makes it easy to maneuver and fit over the toilet bowl drain. Dislodging toilet clogs with this kind of plunger is quicker, easier, and overall more effective than using a cup plunger.

Unfortunately, if using a plunger does not clear your clogged toilet or sink drain — it’s time to call in a professional. If you frequently encounter clogged toilets or drains, it’s often a sign that something further down the pipe is blocking the flow. Sometimes it’s roots from trees or debris. If you call in a professional, ask them to inspect the drain and identify what’s causing the blockage. Make sure you know the facts about your pipes. Is it a simple toilet paper blockage or is it a more serious situation like root intrusion from a cracked sewer line? Knowing the condition of your pipes will help you make a sound decision on how to fix your clogged toilet, sink, or shower drain.

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